Vinyl window replacement is becoming popular for both new and old homes in Central Texas. These windows let you upgrade and spruce up your home while staying within a reasonable budget. Furthermore, vinyl windows make worthwhile investments because of their durability and potential energy efficiency.
But amidst all of the above benefits of vinyl windows, you may ask yourself, “How long do vinyl windows last?” In this article, we will dive deeper into vinyl windows, and we will cover what every homeowner needs to know before installing vinyl replacement windows in their homes.
What are Vinyl Windows?
Vinyl windows are crafted from a type of plastic called PVC. These vinyl windows debuted in the 1970s as an affordable alternative to the pricier wooden ones. Surprisingly, despite being the new kids on the block, vinyl windows have carved out a sizable market share, rivaling those classic wooden ones. Those vinyl windows used to be pretty easy to spot – all white and plastic-like. But interestingly, in the last couple of decades, they’ve started to show up in various colors beyond just white.
A good vinyl window can help you save on energy costs because it has energy-efficient insulation in the frame. Moreover, you won’t need to spend any time or money on maintenance for vinyl windows since they never require painting or scraping. In the end, vinyl windows offer excellent value for your investment.
How Long Do Vinyl Windows Last?
Vinyl windows have a frame made mainly of the rigid, chemically resistant, and durable plastic compound known as PVC. Being made of a type of plastic, however, it’s common for homeowners to wonder, “How long do vinyl windows last?” To answer this, the lifespan of a vinyl window averages anywhere from 20 up to 40 years.
Vinyl windows can easily outlast wooden windows (lifespan of 10-20 years) and aluminum windows (lifespan of 20-25 years.) This is why sturdiness and longevity are two of the well-known winning qualities of vinyl windows.
In addition, vinyl windows go head-to-head with expensive fiberglass windows in the market in terms of durability and premium quality. The bonus is that vinyl windows are much more cost-effective to install and easier to source.
Is Vinyl A Good Material for Windows?
Alongside the impressive lifespan of vinyl windows, these windows are also some of the market’s most low-maintenance and fade-resistant window types.
Made of 100 percent PVC, vinyl windows have these main benefits, therefore making them excellent window materials:
- Vinyl windows do not warp, rot, rust, or corrode when exposed to harsh weather conditions.
- Vinyl windows are not susceptible to termite or mold infestations, all common problems encountered in wooden and metal windows.
- Vinyl windows manufactured from 100% PVC offer even more protection and resistance to fading.
As a homeowner, you are already making a wise investment by simply choosing vinyl windows for your house. The longevity of these windows alone will help you save. Furthermore, vinyl has great insulating properties, making it ideal for energy-efficient windows.
Are Vinyl Windows a Good Investment?
Aside from the benefits stated above, here are more reasons why many people believe that vinyl windows are a good investment:
Less Maintenance
Vinyl replacement windows make life easier for homeowners. They save time all year round because you won’t need to do things like sanding, painting, cleaning, or resurfacing your windows. With vinyl windows, you can concentrate on different aspects of your life and not stress about the damage caused by hot, muggy summers, and other environmental elements.
Lower Energy Costs
Well-insulated vinyl windows act as a barrier, shielding your home from harsh outdoor temperatures. This can lessen the necessity to tweak your heating and cooling setup. Consequently, it frequently results in decreased energy expenses. According to the information from the U.S. Department of Energy, inadequately insulated windows are responsible for 10% to 25% of a homeowner’s heating expenses.
More Natural Light
Let’s talk about how lovely natural light is. Vinyl replacement windows boast sturdy frames and bigger glass areas. These features invite extra light into your home while preserving those fantastic outdoor views.
Protection From the Elements
Vinyl windows, resistant to UV rays, shield your home’s walls, floors, and furniture from sun damage. They’re built to endure the harsh weather in Central Texas, staying tough throughout your home’s life.
Return on Investment
Our vinyl windows are made to enhance your home’s coziness and save you money on energy (leading to reduced utility costs) while boosting your property’s selling price. Additionally, they reduce the need for expensive upkeep, making your investment more profitable.
How Vinyl Windows Stack Up to Other Materials
Vinyl vs Wood
Though it insulates well, wood windows only last 15-20 years, much less than vinyl. This is due to wood’s susceptibility to rot, a concern that doesn’t apply to other window materials. You might find better choices than wood if you value durability and longevity.
Vinyl vs Metal
Window frames made of metal are usually crafted from aluminum. It’s quite light and generally costs less than alternative materials. Regrettably, aluminum doesn’t insulate well and can be easily harmed, especially in storms. Avoid aluminum windows, as they’ll likely require replacement sooner.
Do Vinyl Windows Require Maintenance?
One of the most impressive things about vinyl windows is how little maintenance they need to look good, year after year. Vinyl windows would not peel, swell, or rot in any weather conditions, so you don’t need to worry about major maintenance and repair work.
Nevertheless, your replacement windows are still an investment, and we know that you’d want to take good care of them so they always look like new and work efficiently for the years to come. Basic care of vinyl windows is definitely easier than windows made from other materials as part of your routine cleaning and housekeeping.
How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Old Windows?
Check out these tell-tale signs that say you should get new vinyl windows for your home soon.
Lack-luster Windows
Do you feel your home is losing its aesthetic appeal? Vinyl windows are a great choice because they come in elegant, timeless designs that last up to 40 years for any home style.
High Energy Cost
Old windows that have warped and faded over time could be allowing drafts in and offering you poor insulation, making your heater work overtime during the winter and your air conditioner during the summer. If you notice a spike in your bills, it’s time for new vinyl windows!
Condensation
Tired of condensation or moisture on old leaky windows? Modern vinyl windows have argon gas and warm-edge spacers that help to lower condensation while also controlling humidity at home.
Outdated and malfunctioning windows: Do you still have those old-fashioned single-pane windows that are terrible at insulation? Or worse, do you have rickety windows that are troublesome to close or open? These are clear indications that replacing these windows as soon as possible is time.
More Noise Coming From the Outside
Old windows tend to let in more noise from the outside. You can shut out more outside noise by getting high-quality vinyl windows with insulated glass.
How Much Do Vinyl Windows Cost?
Vinyl window replacements usually cost $300-$1000 each window (only material costs), and it depends on how they’re put up and the kind of window operation. This means how the window would open or operate. The costs consist of 2 main factors: installation and labor. The methods of installation likewise affect the total price of the project.
Factors That Have An Effect On Window Cost:
Type of Window Installation (Retrofit Window vs. New Construction)
New construction needs existing siding or stucco to be cut back so the window can be installed. This type of window features a nailing flange, which is used to attach it to the house or building. This window method is needed if the replacement window is smaller or bigger than the existing opening for the window. If aluminum windows are being replaced, new construction windows should be used to make sure that they will not leak.
The new construction windows also require additional labor to repair the interior drywall as well as exterior siding or stucco. The costs for additional labor could add about 90% more to the project’s cost.
New construction windows would also need the walls, both outside and inside, to be painted.
Window Size
Larger windows would cost more for very obvious reasons, more cost for more material.
Quality of the Window
Not all vinyl windows are created the same. Window quality will vary from different manufacturers. The creation of the frames also varies in terms of quality. The gas fill and the glass quality will also vary. Decent quality vinyl windows have a life expectancy of around 20-40 years.
Long-Lasting, Stylish Vinyl Windows For Your Home
Replacing your windows with vinyl windows is one of the best and most cost-effective investments that you can make for your home. We at Universal Windows Direct offer a wide selection of stylish and high-quality vinyl windows. In addition, we’re with you every step – from initial cost estimate, customization according to your specifications, manufacturing, and installation to after-sales service. We’ll take care of everything for you.